Dental floss

ABSTRACT

A dental floss apparatus for cleaning the gaps between adjacent teeth which is comprised of a pair of handles that are configured for engagement with the fingers and having one or a plurality of strands of flossing substrate extending therebetween. The floss extends within an opening formed between the ends of the two handles, during tensioned employment of the handles by a user. A dissolvable component may be positioned within the opening through an engagement with one or both of the handles or the flossing substrate. The dissolvable component dissolves to a solution during use to deposit a residue on the surface of the teeth. The solution from the dissolving component may be colorized or fluorescent, and have an additive material such as mouthwash, breath freshener, cooling agent, or flavor.

This application is a continuation in part from U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 14/273,338 filed on May 8, 2014 which is a continuation in partfrom U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/348,275 filed on Jan. 11, 2012which is a Continuation in Part application from U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/012,105, filed on Jan. 24, 2011, and U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/182,349, filed on Jul. 13, 2011, which are incorporated byreference herein in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an improved dental flossing apparatus.More particularly it relates to a flossing device and method whichprovides handles which splay to match the contour of the user's fingerrendering the device easier and more comfortable to employ thanconventional floss products. The comfort of the splayed fingerengagement and a gustatory sensation during use, provide means to induceincreased use and thereby encourage regular flossing by the user as partof an ongoing dental hygiene regime.

2. Prior Art

Virtually all dental health practitioners and professionals of the likerecommend the use of dental floss for the removal of interdental plaqueand particulate from between teeth and under the gum line. These areplaces that a toothbrush cannot reach and are common initiation sitesfor tooth decay and gum disease when not cleaned regularly and properly.

Conventional threadlike floss maintains many discouraging aspects to anew or ill-practiced user. It is often difficult to pass the roundthreadlike floss in between two adjacent teeth due to the resistanceencountered by the tooth's side edges. Similarly, children, as well asmany adults, find it hard to hold the distal ends of the floss which canpainfully ‘strangle’ the fingers around which they are wrapped duringuse.

Furthermore, the conventional flossing regimen does not provide anyinitial or immediate positive reinforcement to the floss trainee otherthan of course any oral encouragement from an instructor. As a result,there is an inherent tendency of individuals, to reduce their flossingtime and possibly halt any and all flossing regimens which theindividual may have, with good intentions, initiated. Even in dedicatedusers having a flossing regimen, such a lack of encouragement or aninducement to continue, can be a resulting cause of reduced flossingover time. Attempts to solve some of these shortcomings and flaws havebeen attempted as is shown in prior art which include dissolvablecomponents such as substrates and capsules for positive reinforcement.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,281,541 to Lorch, while a definite improvement in therealm of flossing, teaches dental floss comprised of a dissolvingcomponent formed of a planar flossing substrate with one or a pluralityof apertures formed therein. About each aperture is a pair of ediblesubstrate portions slightly larger than the aperture and joined togetherthrough the aperture in the substrate thereby securing it to the latter.In use the edible substrate that is flavored and/or impregnated withmedicine, is dissolved or temporarily imparted onto the tooth giving theuser a temporary flavor or visual stimulus providing positivereinforcement of the procedure. However, in some individuals, theengagement of the edible substrate dissolving component to the planarsubstrate may impart a difficulty in the insertion of the floss totranslatabley engage in between two adjacent teeth. Surprisingly this isdue to the added thickness of the initially blocking, not justdissolving, edible substrate. Further, individuals may find addeddifficulty in gripping the device similar to the ‘strangling’ problemassociated with conventional floss as mentioned above. As such, there isa continuing and unmet need for an improved device that when employedfor flossing, immediately provides an easy and comfortable means to doso, while concurrently freshening breath during flossing and increasingthe effectiveness of such a flossing session. The device should be easyto grasp with any of the user's fingers without numerous wrapstherearound as is required of floss dispensed from containers. It shouldprovide finger-engageable and ingressible ends to not only assist inpositioning the floss in the user's mouth, but also to aid in the userengaging in easy employment of the proper flossing techniques andprocedures set forth by a dental professional. Further, the deviceshould provide positive reinforcement such as a perceived healthadvantage or a gustatory inducement to employ, and continue to use flossin an ongoing manner to users.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The device herein disclosed and described achieves the above-mentionedgoals in surmounting the shortcomings of prior art. In a preferred mode,the device accomplishes this object through the provision of one or aplurality of any conventional commercially available coated,impregnated, waxed or unwaxed flossing substrates extending between twoplanar grips or handles. In a second, preferred mode of the device, anaperture formed within a planar flossing substrate is provided also withtwo handles.

The device employs a first and second surface and a first and second endeach engaged with a handle. The second end of the device issubstantially a mirror of the first end. The flossing substrate extendsbetween and connects the handles at a substantially central locationthereon. These handles provide for engagement to the hand throughcompression between the thumb and one finger or with that finger,thereby eliminating the conventional need to wind the distal end of theflossing substrate about one's finger which frequently results in astrangulation of a user's fingers. The finger-engageable handles aremost preferably, a flexible hypoallergenic adhesive cloth tapecommercially available as listed product number 1538 as manufactured bythe 3M Company or TYVEK nonwoven available from Dupont. The employmentof TYVEK nonwoven for the handle formation is especially preferred inthat it renders the device entirely recyclable.

However, as those skilled in the art will no doubt realize upon readingthis disclosure, the handles may be any woven or nonwoven,non-stretchable or substantially non-stretchable fabric, employing, orimparted with an adhesive backing suited for the intended purpose of thedevice herein as will become apparent shortly.

In addition, the finger-engageable handles may include a longitudinalslot, slit, or aperture disposed substantially in a mid-portion alongthe width of the handles of the device. The slot, slit, or aperturecommunicates through the opposing surfaces of the handles and rendersthem more easily finger-engageable. This is especially true in that theslit, when the handles are in tensioned engagement between or withfingers and provide a means to form a splay to the substantially flathandles in a curved or three dimensional manner when in the as usedmode. This splay formation is especially preferred as it causes apartial wrapping of the material about the curved surface of the user'sthumb or a forefinger. This splay, much like the friction enhancingadherent noted herein, provides increased comfort and a significantmeans for frictional enhancement and resulting increase in the abilityof the user to grip and maintain their finger-engagement with the devicein the as-used mode.

Additionally, the slit, slot, or aperture provides the user a means tosubstantially ingress their thumb or a forefinger through the slot for acontact therebetween. This results in an increased ability to the userfor gripping and re-orienting of the device as may be desirable forflossing hard to reach places in the mouth.

Due to the tension required for flossing it is particularly preferredthat the finger-ingressible slits, slots, or apertures, are formed inmaterial which is partially or substantially non-tearing. Such utilitymay be provided by adding or laminating additional layers of material tothe handle portions, as will be explained in more detail herein.

In an additional preferred mode of the device the handles may be formedof injection molded polypropylene. It is preferred that thepolypropylene be thin for flexibility yet provide strength required towithstand the tensile forces associated with the flossing process.Further, in this mode the handle may employ a finger-ingressibleaperture or slot as opposed to a slit.

In a particularly preferred mode of the device, the flossing substrateis substantially planar in construction and made of expandedpolytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). In other preferred modes of the device,the substrate may be multi-filament nylon or non-elastic ultra highmolecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) or the like. Of course thoseskilled in the art will realize that other materials may be employed forthe substrate and new materials adapted for such may come available. Assuch, any materials one skilled in the art might employ for thesubstrate are considered within the scope of this application.

In all preferred modes of the disclosed device, a dissolvable componentsuch as first and second planar edible and dissolvable substrates,dissolvable capsules, or other media adapted to dissolve during use, areengaged at or near an innermost edge of the first and second handle, orin-between them, by an appropriate engagement means. Where thedissolvable component is one or a plurality of dissolvable substrates,they extend from this attachment end to a distal end a distance from theedge of the respective handle.

In other preferred modes of the device, the dissolvable component isprovided by one or a plurality of dissolvable capsules having a filledcore therein provided and engaged near an innermost edge of the first orsecond handle by an engagement means or in-between the handles. Thecapsule or capsules when dissolving are intended to elicit a pleasantgustatory and/or olfactory sensation in the user during use and like thefilm, may have cores of flavoring, cooling agent, heating agent, dentalplaque disclosing agent, or medicine contained in a core or in a solidsolution forming the capsule. Additional preferred dissolvable capsulematerials are provided below in the detailed description. Thedissolvable components may also employ both the film and the capsuleshould such be advantageous.

The edible substrate, or solid solution formed capsule, may be apullulan or gelatin base. A pullulan substrate provides a fairly rapidrate of dissolution while a gelatin-based substrate dissolves lessquickly and may be desired as well for that reason so as to allow moretime for flossing while concurrently communicating a taste and/orcooling sensation to the user during the continued flossing session.

Both edible substrates extend to distal ends spaced from theirengagement ends to handles, to a predetermined distance. The preferredtwo edible substrates cover the flossing substrate extending toconnections with the edges of both handles and which determine thedistance between the two respective edges of the handles.

In a particularly preferred mode of the device, the edible substratesextend inward from their attachment to the innermost edges of the firstand second handles a combined distance that is shorter than the lengthof the flossing substrate connecting the two handles. This forms a gapbetween the two opposing distal edges of the first and second ediblesubstrates exposing the flossing substrate therein.

Preferably, the dissolvable edible substrate should be of a verticalwidth substantially equal to the width of the handles. This maximizesthe size of the edible substrate and therefor the time in the mouthrequired for a total dissolving. The larger size thus provides more timefor flossing while concurrently providing the user with encouragementthrough communicated flavor, cooling agent, medicine or the like. Theeasy access to the floss therebetween maintains the engagability of thefloss substrate between the user's teeth and the subsequentmaneuverability within the mouth.

The gap created between the two distal ends of the edible substrate,exposing the flossing substrate, defines an engagement zone in which asaliva-coated tooth or pair of adjacent teeth can engage the flossingsubstrate without blocking interference from the edible substrate. Inuse, the flossing substrate is positioned within the space between anytwo adjacent teeth of a user and the engagement zone provides a means tosee the underlying flossing substrate as well as some clearance for theedible substrate during flossing. As flossing commences the ediblesubstrate, situated on both sides of the dental arch, proceeds todissolve and deliver to the user the desired flavor, cooling agent,medicine, or the like as dictated by the choice of edible substrates.Since edible substrates are positioned on both sides of the gap, andhence both sides of the dental arch during any flossing session, flavorand/or medicine are adequately delivered to all saliva coated teethand/or saliva coated gum tissue.

In another particularly preferred mode the edible substrates may extendfurther to a shared abutted edge centrally located on the device.Similarly, the edible substrates may extend even further and overlapabout a central position on the device. For both modes, the abutted edgeor overlap, the dissolving edible substrates will last longer due tosize and might be preferable when used by novice flossers, or byindividuals who floss for longer durations. While the underlyingflossing substrate may not be initially visible since the gap iseliminated, engagement between the teeth is relatively simple since thedistal ends of the edible floss are simply deflected by the teeth uponengagement of the teeth.

In still another particularly preferred mode one or a plurality ofportions of edible substrate may be engaged on both surfaces of thedevice at or near the inner most edge of the handles. In this mode, theopposing layers of the edible substrates extending from the edges ofeach handle, cover and in effect sandwich the flossing substratetherebetween. As in the longer edible substrate mode, the addition ofmore edible substrate layers can provide an extended release of flavor,cooling agent, medicine, or breath freshening means as desired by a useror dental health professional. Furthermore, predetermined doses ofmedicine or the like can be employed on the device as dictated by theamount of edible substrate present on the device. Thus, the device cansimultaneously provide a prescribed dose of medicine while promotingproper and continued flossing practice.

With respect to the above description, before explaining at least onepreferred embodiment of the herein disclosed invention in detail, it isto be understood that the invention is not limited in its application tothe details of construction and to the arrangement of the components inthe following description or as illustrated in the drawings. Theinvention herein described is capable of other embodiments and of beingpracticed and carried out in various ways which will be obvious to thoseskilled in the art. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseologyand terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description andshould not be regarded as limiting.

As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conceptionupon which this disclosure is based may readily be utilized as a basisfor designing of other oral hygiene structures, methods and systems forcarrying out the several purposes of the present disclosed device. It isimportant, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including suchequivalent construction and methodology insofar as they do not departfrom the spirit and scope of the present invention.

It is an object of the invention to provide a dental flossing devicethat provides a gustatory means to encourage a flossing regime throughthe provision of a dissolvable component such as an edible substrateand/or dissolvable capsule.

It is another object of the invention to provide such a dissolvablecomponent of an edible substrate or dissolvable capsule with one or acombination of a flavoring, cooling agent, medicine, or breathfreshening means, or combinations thereof.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a dental device thatis easy and comfortable to use for new as well as proficient floss usersas well as easy to maneuver in the mouth.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide a discernableengagement zone or gap to define a target to thereby guide a user to thecorrect position of the device for proper usage.

A further object of the invention is to provide one or a plurality offlossing substrates extending between two handles for use with both theupper and lower set of teeth.

Yet another object of the present invention is the provision of aplurality of any pre-existing commercially available coated,impregnated, waxed, or unwaxed flossing substrate engaged between twohandles.

Still a further object of the invention is to provide a neat andconvenient packaging for single use employment of the device in a clean,moisture proof environment.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a dental devicewhich is easy to manufacture and commercialize by pre-existing dentalfloss manufacturers and marketers and retailers of global-branded flossproducts to better serve end users.

A still further object of the invention is to provide afinger-ingressible communication between both sides of the handles inthe form of a slit, slot, or aperture formed in the handle portions ofthe device to provide for easier finger engagement therewith.

Yet a further object of the invention is to provide such a communicationthrough the handles which employ woven or nonwoven fabric which isadapted to form a splayed engagement of the handle, about the user'sthumb or a forefinger for a frictionally enhanced grip therebetween.

Yet another object of the invention herein is the provision of such animproved device, which employs both floss, handles and packaging, whichare of recyclable materials.

Further objects of the invention will be brought out in the followingpart of the specification, wherein detailed description is for thepurpose of fully disclosing the invention without placing limitationsthereon.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING FIGURES

FIG. 1 a shows a top plan view of a particularly preferred mode of thedevice showing a side surface and a gap.

FIG. 1 b shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 1 a as seenalong line AA.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 1 a, as seenalong line AA thereof, depicted in an as-used position, as wherein thedevice is engaged in a space between two adjacent incisors.

FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of another particularly preferredmode of the device depicting an overlap of the edible substratescovering one side view of the gap and flossing substrate therein.

FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of yet another particularlypreferred mode of the device depicting the edible substrates extendinginward to a shared abutment of their distal ends.

FIG. 5 a is a top plan view of still another preferred mode of thedisclosed device depicting dissolvable components in the form of ediblesubstrates engaged on both surfaces of two flossing substrates with aplurality of engagement zones therein.

FIG. 5 b is a side cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 5 a seenfrom line BB.

FIG. 6 a depicts what is currently considered a preferred mode of thedevice showing a top plan view and a layer of edible substrate extendingfrom handles.

FIG. 6 b shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 6 a seenfrom line CC.

FIG. 6 c depicts a cross-sectional view of the device along line G-G.

FIG. 7 a is another preferred mode of the device depicting the ediblefloss engaged to the parallel flossing substrates communicating betweentwo handles.

FIG. 7 b shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 7 a seenfrom line DD.

FIG. 8 a is a further preferred mode of the device having multiplelayers of edible substrate extending from an engagement to each handleon opposite sides of the floss.

FIG. 8 b shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 8 a seenfrom line EE.

FIG. 9 a shows another preferred mode of the device having multiplelayers of an edible substrate which abut each other on opposite sides ofthe floss substrate.

FIG. 9 b shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 9 a seenfrom line FF.

FIG. 10 a is still another mode of the device.

FIG. 10 b shows a side view of the device from FIG. 10 a.

FIG. 11 a shows another mode of the device.

FIG. 11 b shows a side view of the device from FIG. 11 a.

FIG. 12 a depicts what is considered a current particularly preferredmode of the device showing a top view and a layer of edible substrateextending from handles that each have a slit or aperture.

FIG. 12 b shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 12 a seenfrom line HH.

FIG. 12 c shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 12 a asseen from line II.

FIG. 13 a is yet another preferred mode of the device with a singleflossing strand showing a top view and a layer of edible substrateextending from handles that each have a slit or aperture.

FIG. 13 b shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 13 a seenfrom line JJ.

FIG. 13 c shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 13 a asseen from line KK.

FIG. 14 a shows another mode of the device similarly having a slit oraperture formed to communicate through the handles.

FIG. 14 b shows a side view of the device from FIG. 14 a.

FIG. 15 a shows still yet another mode of the device having a slit oraperture disposed in the transverse direction.

FIG. 15 b shows a cross sectional view of the device from FIG. 15 a asseen from line MM.

FIG. 16 is a top view of the device depicted in an as-used positionbetween two adjacent teeth and shown translatabley engaged within thespace between a pair of incisors.

FIG. 17 shows a sequence of eight steps in one preferred mode ofemployment of the device with the handles engaged between a finger andthumb of opposing hands until the last step wherein slots in the handlesare engaged by fingers therethrough.

FIG. 17 a depicts a sequence for employment of the device similar tothat of FIG. 17 but without a dissolvable component using opposinghandles engaged between a thumb and a finger of each hand in a firstas-used position, and culminating in an eighth step with one fingerengaged in a respective slot communicating through each handle.

FIG. 17 b shows the device in a mode having a single strand of flossingsubstrate in an offset position between opposing handles with opposingdissolvable components.

FIG. 18 a shows, with what is considered a current preferred mode ofFIG. 12 a depicted, the device showing the formation of a splayedengagement with the surface of the forefinger of the user whentensioned, to prevent slippage, as would be for the first seven steps ofthe sequence of steps of FIG. 17.

FIG. 18 b shows, with what is considered a current best mode of FIG. 12a depicted, an alternate, and optional, preferred eighth step that maybe substituted for the first step in the sequence of steps of FIG. 17which may be further optionally modified, as not shown, for use of thedevice with the mode of FIG. 12 a depicted.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the device in a particularly preferredmode, wherein it is surrounded by a removable package forming a clean,substantially sterile, moisture proof storage compartment for storageand transport of the device therein in any mode disclosed.

FIG. 20 a depicts an additional preferred mode of the device showing atop plan view with a dissolvable component formed as a layer of ediblesubstrate extending from one handle and a dissolvable capsule engaged ona substantially central portion on the other, the capsule preferablybeing a breath freshening capsule.

FIG. 20 b shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 20 a alongline N-N of FIG. 20 a.

FIG. 20 c shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 20 a alongline O-O of FIG. 20 a.

FIG. 20 d shows a view of another preferred mode of the device showingfirst and second handles each employing a capsule in a preferred engagedposition on the ledge portion.

FIG. 21 a shows a view of another preferred mode of device showing thefirst and second handles each employing capsules in another preferredengaged position on the ledge portion employing partial circumferentialengagement with a tab portion.

FIG. 21 b shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 21 a alongline P-P of FIG. 21 a.

FIG. 21 c depicts an additional preferred mode of the device having adissolvable capsule engaged on the first handle in accordance with themode of FIG. 21 a, and layer of edible substrate engaged to the secondhandle and extending therefrom.

FIG. 22 a shows a view of another preferred mode of device showing thefirst and second handles each employing a capsule in a yet anotherpreferred engaged position on the ledge portion employing a longitudinalslit such that the capsules are essentially cradled within the slits.

FIG. 22 b shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 22 a alongline PP-PP of FIG. 22 a.

FIG. 22 c depicts an additional preferred mode of the device having adissolvable capsule engaged on the first handle in accordance with themode of FIG. 22 a, and a layer of edible substrate engaged to the secondhandle and extending therefrom.

FIG. 23 a shows a view of another preferred mode of device showing thefirst and second handles each employing a capsule in yet anotherpreferred engaged position on the ledge portion disposed at or near theinnermost edge of the handle.

FIG. 23 b depicts an additional preferred mode of the device having adissolvable capsule engaged on the first handle in accordance with themode of FIG. 23 a, and a layer of edible substrate engaged to the secondhandle and extending therefrom.

FIG. 24 a depicts an additional preferred mode of the device showing atop plan view with the dissolvable component provided by a layer ofedible substrate extending from one handle, and at least two dissolvablecapsules and a strip of edible substrate engaged on the other handle,again the capsules are preferably a breath freshening capsule.

FIG. 24 b shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 24 a alongline Q-Q of FIG. 24 a.

FIG. 24 c shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 24 a alongline R-R of FIG. 24 a.

FIG. 25 a depicts another preferred mode of the device showing a topplan view with dissolvable components provided by a layer of ediblesubstrate extending from one handle and at least two dissolvablecapsules engaged on the other handle.

FIG. 25 b shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 25 a alongline S-S of FIG. 25 a.

FIG. 25 c shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 25 a alongline T-T of FIG. 25 a.

FIG. 25 d shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 25 a alongline U-U of FIG. 25 a.

FIG. 26 shows a view of another preferred mode of device showing thefirst and second handles each employing first and second capsules in afirst preferred engaged position on the ledge portion.

FIG. 27 a shows a view of another preferred mode of device showing thefirst and second handles each employing first and second capsules inanother preferred engaged position employing partial circumferentialengagement with respective transverse tab portions.

FIG. 27 b shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 27 a alongline V-V of FIG. 27 a.

FIG. 28 shows a view of another preferred mode of device showing thefirst and second handles each employing first and second capsules in yetanother preferred engaged position employing partial circumferentialengagement with respective corner tab portions.

FIG. 29 a shows another mode of the device having a slit or apertureformed to communicate through the handles, employing a combination ofdissolvable components provided by an edible substrate on one handle anda dissolvable capsule engaged on the other handle.

FIG. 29 b shows a side view of the device from FIG. 29 a.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the device in a particularly preferredmode, wherein it is surrounded by a removable package forming a clean,moisture proof storage compartment for the device therein.

FIG. 31 depicts an additional preferred mode of the device in a planview showing a single strand of flossing substrate extending between anengagement with two handles.

FIG. 32 shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 31 along lineV-V.

FIG. 33 shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 31 along lineU-U.

FIG. 34 depicts an additional preferred mode of the device in a planview showing two strands of flossing substrate extending betweenrespective engagements with two handles.

FIG. 35 shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 34 along lineBB-BB.

FIG. 36 shows a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 34 along lineAA-AA.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Now referring to drawings in FIGS. 1-30, wherein similar components areidentified by like reference numerals, there is seen in FIG. 1 a aparticularly preferred mode of the device 10. In this mode a left andright handle 14 and 16 are shown engaged to flossing substrate 12communicating therebetween and providing means for engagement with theone or more fingers in a substantially frictional engagement by a userduring use.

Also extending from an attachment point to each handle 14 and 16, fromthe same respective edge thereof where the flossing substrate 12extends, are dissolvable components formed by a first portion 21 andsecond portion 23 of a dissolvable component provided by an ediblesubstrate 20 material which is adapted to dissolve when contacted bysaliva coated teeth and gums. The edible substrate 20 portions 21 and23, are sized to extend from their attachment point to their respectivehandle 14 and 16, a distance less than the total length of the flossingsubstrate 12 extending therebetween. Consequently when the handles 14and 16 are engaged by one or a plurality of fingers of a user in theas-used position (FIGS. 16, 17, and 18), and the flossing substrate 12is taught, a gap 25 is centrally located between the terminating ends ofthe first portion 21 and second portion 23 of the edible substrate 20which defines an engagement zone 22 for the device 10. The engagementzone 22 provides a clearance and a visual targeting means for a user toproperly position the device 10 to engage the flossing substrate 12 inthe space between two adjacent teeth when a user is employing the device10 in the as-used position to clean their teeth in a flossing procedure.

The sizing of the portions of the dissolvable components formed asflavored edible substrate 20 are configured to form the length of theflossing substrate 12 to define the gap 25 and engagement zone 22,thereby provides users a targeting means and is particularly preferred.The targeting means so formed allows users an easy means to visuallyascertain the proper positioning of the device 10 and flossing substrate12 when held by the handles 14 and 16, to properly engage and employ itin a flossing session.

Colorizing the edible substrate 20 or other dissolvable componentemployed, provides a means for increasing the ability of the user todiscern the gap 25 and the engagement zone 22 since the gap 25 will bevoid of the color. As such, providing colored edible substrate 20 willeven allow users requiring glasses or contacts for close viewing toascertain the proper position for engagement of the device 10 with theirteeth, without their eyewear. For instance using a color or dye thatfluoresces under room light or is otherwise bright, will cause the gap25 to visually stand out against the two adjacent portions 21 and 23, ofthe edible substrate 20.

Those skilled in the art will realize that in the employment of flossingsubstrate 12 in the proper length between the handles 14 and 16 to formthe gap 25 along with the appropriately sized edible substrate portions21 and 23 of the edible substrate 20, they may be engaged to the handles14 and 16 in any number of fashions. All such means of engagement aswould so occur, are considered to be within the scope of thisapplication.

One preferred mode of such attachment is shown in FIGS. 1 a-1 b, wherethe handles 14 and 16 are depicted with top and bottom planar portions15,17 of a flexible hypoallergenic material. The preferredhypoallergenic material for the handles 14 and 16 may also have afriction enhancing adherent 27 positioned upon the exposed surfaces toincrease the frictional engagement with the user's finger duringtensioning of the flossing substrate 12 while employing the device 10 inthe as-used position. Since the handles 14 and 16 can easily become wetor damp during the process, a friction enhancement with the surface ofone or more fingers to the surfaces of the handles 14 and 16 would bepreferred. Currently preferred adherable friction enhancing materialsfor the adherent 27 can be one or a combination of such materials from agroup including a tackified adhesive, a re-adherable adhesive, anon-tackified adhesive, a heat sealant adhesive, beeswax, carnauba wax,jojoba wax, Commiphora myrrha resin extract, propolis cera, and arubbery hot-melt adhesive. Tackified adhesives currently favored areacrylate adhesive or polybutylacrylate. However, any tackified ornon-tackified adhesive as would occur to those skilled in the art uponreading this specification is anticipated within the scope of thispatent.

One favored material for forming the handles 14 and 16 is availablecommercially as product number 1538 from the 3M Company. Another suchmaterial which is a particularly preferred fabric for the handles is anonwoven fabric from Dupont sold under the tradename TYVEK which isfully recyclable. TYVEK 1059B is the preferred grade of TYVEK fabric.However, the material can be any woven or nonwoven fabric suitable tothe described task herein such as a spunbonded high densitypolyethylene. Either of these materials, or any material one skilled inthe art might choose, would benefit in the damp environment of flossingfrom the increased frictional engagement with the one or more of theuser's fingers during tensioning of the floss substrates 12 in theas-used position, by positioning the friction enhancing surface thereonas noted above.

One, or more preferably a plurality of flossing substrates 12, sized toform the gap 25, extend between respective engagements to each of thehandles. A particularly preferred means to engage the flossing substrate12 to the handles 14 and 16, is by sandwiching the substrate 12 betweenthe inner surfaces of the top and bottom planar portions 15,17 of thehandles 14,16. The top and bottom portions would be engaged using atackified adhesive, molding, or other means to engage them in a mannerto hold the flossing substrate 12 engaged therebetween.

As noted, a particularly preferred mode of the device 10 in all depictedmodes, employs dissolvable components in the form of a plurality offlossing substrates 12 shown as two flossing substrates 12. Particularlypreferred for ease of insertion between teeth, is a planar flossingsubstrate material formed of a shred-proof friction-lessening materialsuch as expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). Alternatively, thedevice 10 may employ flossing substrate portions formed of multifilament nylon or a non-elastic ultra high molecular weight polyethylene(UHMWPE). The flossing substrate employing ePTFE, or nylon, or UHMWPEmay be waxed, coted, impregnated, Auxetic or unwaxed flossingsubstrates.

The two sections of flossing substrate 12 employed on the device 10 maybe similar in construction, or may employ different substrate types asdesired by a user. However, due to the superior coverage a plurality offlossing substrates 12 provides during translation over the surface ofteeth during flossing, the provision of at least two flossing elements12 is more desirable so as to aid a user in properly removingundesirable material from the surfaces of teeth being flossed.

A view from cross-sectional cut AA is seen in FIG. 1 b. The dissolvablecomponents shown as edible and preferably flavored edible substrate 20or dissolvable component portions, suitable for dissolution in liquidand especially saliva, are shown as a first and second portionrespectively 21, and 23. In one particularly preferred manner for allmodes of the device 10 the edible substrate 20 is pullulan based toprovide a means for rapid dissolution in the mouth during use. Also, thesubstrates 20 are formed in substantially rectangular shape. However,those skilled in the art can appreciate a multitude of shapes and formsthat can be employed which achieve the same goal and are anticipated bythis application.

The edible substrate portions 21,23 are shown on the first or top planarportion 15 of the device 10 at or near the innermost edges 19 of thehandles 14,16 where the flossing substrate 12 communicates therebetween.As noted, a means for engagement of the edible substrate 20 may beachieved through the provision of secondary adhesive cloth tape 18,shown by hatched fill lines in the figure, engaging the dissolvablecomponent provided by the edible substrate 20 to the first or top planarportion 15 at or near the innermost edge 19 of the respective handles.Of course other means for engagement for the edible substrate 20 may beemployed and any such means of engagement as would occur to thoseskilled in the art is anticipated within the scope of this patent.

So engaged using adhesive or other means of engagement, the first andsecond portions 21,23 of the edible substrate 20 extend inward along oneside surface of the flossing substrate 12 which communicates between theengaged handles. As noted, shown in a particularly preferred mode, arethe edible substrate 20 portions extending to distal ends insofar as tomaintain the gap 25 centrally located on the device 10 in the as-usedposition with the flossing substrates 12 taught between the handles, andthereby defining the engagement zone 22.

This clearance is shown in FIG. 2 which depicts a top cross-sectionalview of the device 10 in an as-used position. The device 10 is shownwith the flossing substrate 12 engaged within the gap 101 between twoadjacent incisors 100. The engagement zone 22 provides clearance for thefirst and second portions 21,23 of the edible substrate 20 from theadjacent incisors 100. Additionally the gap 25 defines a means fortargeting the floss substrates 12 to a position proximate to the gap 101between any two adjacent teeth of the user whereafter the flosssubstrates 12 may be slidably engaged into the gap 101 more easily.

Using conventional translational flossing motion, the edible substrateportions 21,23 are deflected by the incisors and as shown deflected byincisor 100. Concurrently the substrate portions 21 and 23 providing thedissolvable components, continually dissolve thereby depositing one or acombination of wet or dry ingredients upon the teeth, gums, andsurrounding mouth of the user. Whether the capsule or edible substrateor combinations thereof, the dissolvable components can include one or acombination of wet or dry ingredients from a group including, adissolvable component formed as a solid solution such as dissolvablecandies and mints, or a dissolvable capsule containing a core formed ofone or a combination of wet or dry materials from a group including, abreath freshening core, a medicinal dosage, nutritional supplements,flavoring, mouthwash, a cooling agent, a heating agent, a dental plaquedisclosing agent, a medicine and nutritional supplements. Further foreither mode of dissolvable component included, it may be desirable toemploy a means to slow the rate of dissolution thereof. For instancewhen employing the edible substrate portions 21 and 23, or capsule 90, aslower dissolving rate for slower flossing users such as children, andthis may be accomplished in a number of ways known to those skilled inthe art, for instance using a mixture of 76% gelatin base for the ediblesubstrates 21 and 23 or capsule 90.

Another particularly preferred mode of the device 10 can be seen in thecross sectional view in FIG. 3. Similar to that of the mode described inFIGS. 1 a and 1 b, construction of device 10 employs an attachment ofthe handles 14 and 16 to the dissolvable component or edible substrate20 and the flossing substrate 12. In the depicted mode of the device 10in FIG. 3, the first and second edible substrate portions 21,23 extendinsofar to create an overlap 24 of the first and second portions. Thismode of the device 10 provides an increased portion of edible substrate20 which can be deposited in the mouth of the user. Upon engagement ofthe flossing substrate 12 to a pair of adjacent teeth (not shown) theportions 21,23 are simply deflected away. While the preferred gap 25 isnot employed for targeting, the overlap point of the substrate portions21 and 23 may also be employed, or, the two substrate portions 21 and 23may be formed of different colors to enhance the overlap as thetargeting position for engagement to the teeth by the user.

Yet another preferred mode of the device 10 is seen in a similar crosssectional view in FIG. 4. While similar in construction and use to thedevice of FIGS. 1 a and 1 b, this mode of the device 10 employs thefirst and second edible substrate portions 21 and 23, having a lengthwhich provides for abutting distal ends 26 at the gap 25 which may beused for targeting at engagement with the user's teeth. The position ofthe gap 25 may be enhanced using different color substrate portions 21and 23, or by terminating the colorizing of the substrate portions 21and 23 just before their distal ends 26 thereby forming a virtual gap 25viewable by the users for targeting the device 10 for insertion betweentheir teeth during flossing.

A further mode of the device 10 is shown in FIG. 5 a and sidecross-sectional view about line BB shown in FIG. 5 b. Employing similarconstruction and means of engagement of the left and right handles 14,16with the flossing substrate 12 as that of FIG. 1, this mode employsfirst and second substrates 21 and 23 in a sandwiched engagement withopposing first and second portions 21′,23′ of edible substrate 20, uponthe flossing substrate 12.

The first and second portions 21,23 shown positioned between theinnermost edges 62 of the first or top planar portion 15 of the handles14, 16 are respectively joined by an engagement means to the opposingfirst and second portions 21′,23′, similarly positioned between theinnermost edges 64 of the second or bottom planar portion 17 of thehandles 14, 16, thereby providing a means to hold them in place on theflossing substrate 12. Means to mate the portions of the top and bottomssurfaces may include one or a combination of edible adhesives or bysimply wetting the substrates and allowing them to dry after applyingcontact pressure on the two portions. For the configuration shown in thefigure a plurality of engagement zones 22 are created, and allow for aplurality of targeting or initiation positions to be employed by theuser when engaging the flossing substrate 12 between teeth.

A preferred mode of the device 10 is shown in FIGS. 6 a, 6 b and 6 c. Asevidenced from FIGS. 6 a, 6 b and 6 c, the first or top planar portion15 has, as shown in FIG. 6 c, an inner most surface 61 and the second orbottom planar portion 17 has an inner most surface 63. As furtherevidenced in FIG. 6 c, and therein on each handle 14 and 16, first andsecond portions 21, 23 of edible substrate 20 are engaged respectivelyon a ledge or an inner most portion 65 of the inner most surface 63 ofthe second or bottom planar portion 17 thereof, thereby joining therespective portions 21 and 23 of edible substrate 20 to handles 14, 16.

As even further evidenced in FIGS. 6 a, 6 b and 6 c, first and secondportions 21, 23 of edible substrate 20 are engaged respectively on thehandles 14 and 16 at the inner most edges 62 of the first or top planarportion 15 of the handles 14 and 16 at the respective abutted edges 28shared therebetween. As evidenced in FIG. 6 c, each inner most edge 64of the second or bottom planar portion 17 of each respective handle 14and 16 is longitudinally spaced apart from the inner most edge 62 of thefirst or top planar portion 15 to form a ledge or an inner most portion65 on an inner most surface 63, on each handle 14 and 16. As in thedevice of FIG. 1, a gap 25 defining a means for targeting or anengagement zone 22 is formed in a centrally located position on thedevice 10 providing the target for means of engagement of the device 10for use. As shown in FIGS. 6 a, 6 b and 6 c, the device 10 represents apreferred mode of the invention, and the device 10 represents the mostefficient structure employing the least amount of the flexible andhypoallergenic adhesive cloth tape and the like employed in the handles14, 16.

Still a further particularly preferred mode of the device is seen inFIGS. 7 a and 7 b. A substantially larger edible substrate 20 is engagedwith a first portion 21 on the flossing substrate 12 positionedsubstantially midway between the innermost edges 62 of the first or topplanar portion 15 of the first 14 and second 16 handles respectively.Further, a second portion 21′ of edible substrate 20 is positioned onthe flossing substrate 12 substantially midway between the innermostedges 64 of the second or bottom planar portion 17 of the first 14 andsecond 16 handles respectively. The two portions of edible substrate 20are held in place on the flossing substrate 12 by means of engagementsuch as adhesive or by engagement of the material forming the substrateportions. Gaps providing multiple engagement zones 22 for targetingduring use are maintained near both the first and second handles 14,16.

Another preferred mode of the device is shown in FIGS. 8 a and 8 b. Inthis mode first and second portions 21,23 of edible substrate 20adjacent the top planar portion 15 and first and second portions 21′,23′of edible substrate adjacent the bottom planar portion 17 are engaged tothe respective handles 14,16 at the inner most edge 19 by a surroundingmeans of engagement. Such an engagement means may be a substantialoverlap at the edge 19 of the two opposing portions of material formingthe handles themselves thereby adhering or engaging the edible substrate20 in a manner for it to extend toward the opposite handle and over theflossing substrate 12. Again, a gap 25 forming the target or engagementzone 22 is maintained.

FIGS. 9 a and 9 b show still another mode of the device 10 similar tothat of FIGS. 8 a and 8 b except that the first and second portions ofedible substrate 20 of both the top and bottom surface 21,23,21′,23′extend toward respective opposite handles to respective abutted edges 30forming the target defining an engagement zone for the user during use,as opposed to leaving the gap defining the engagement zone 22 previouslydescribed.

FIGS. 10 a and 10 b show an additional mode of the device 10 configuredby a flossing substrate 12 with an aperture 40 formed communicatingbetween the first or top planar surface 81 and a second or bottom planarsurface 83. First and second handles 14,16 are defined by end portionsof the planar flossing substrate 12. Side portions 13 of the planarflossing substrate 12 extend around the perimeter of, and help definethe aperture 40, and preferably align with the edge of the adjacentsubstrate 12 thereby providing an elongated means to floss when engagedwithin the crevices between teeth.

First and second portions 21,23 of edible substrate 20 are engaged onone surface such as the first or top planar surface 81 of the device byoperative means of engagement. Engaged to the flossing substrate 12,portions 21,23 are cut or formed in a manner to overlap the aperture 40and have the same side edge, that is widths, as the flossing substrate12. The portions 21,23 are engaged at or near the ends of the aperture40 using means of engagement such as adhesive or tape 18. The portions21, and 23 extend inward and over the aperture 40. The gap 25 ismaintained between the two portions and defines the target for the userin the engagement zone 22 as previously described.

An additional mode of the device 10 is depicted in FIGS. 11 a and 11 b.First and second portions 21,23 of edible substrate 20 positioned onboth the first or top planar surface 81 are respectively joined by anengagement means to the first and second portions 21′,23′ on theopposing second or bottom planar surface 83 holding them in place overthe aperture 40. Means to mate the portions of the top and bottomsurfaces may include one or a combination of edible adhesives or bysimply wetting the substrates and allowing them to dry after applyingcontact pressure on the two portions.

A particularly preferred current mode and the most preferred mode of thedevice 10 is shown in FIGS. 12 a, 12 b and 12 c. FIGS. 12 a, 12 b and 12c respectively show views of the device 10 similar to but furthermodified from FIGS. 6 a, 6 b and 6 c. The structure of the device 10from FIGS. 12 a, 12 b and 12 c is identical to the structure of thedevice 10 in FIGS. 6 a, 6 b and 6 c except for a transversely centeredand longitudinally centered longitudinal slit or aperture 70 within eachhandle 14, 16 of device 10. In this best current mode of the device 10,each handle 14, 16 is dimensioned large enough so that each longitudinalslit or aperture 70 in each handle 14 and 16 is dimensioned large enoughto be capable of being easily penetrated by the forefinger, and eachhandle 14 and 16 is dimensioned large enough to be capable of being heldand tensed to a useful degree of tension with forefingers as occursduring an alternate kind of flossing session. Such a slit or aperture 70in each handle 14, 16 of the device 10 can be incorporated toalternately, and optionally, modify the structure of any other mode ofthe invention.

A still further embodiment of another preferred mode of the device 10 isshown in FIGS. 13 a, 13 b and 13 c. FIGS. 13 a, 13 b and 13 crespectively show views of the device 10 similar to FIGS. 12 a, 12 b and12 c. The structure of the device 10 from FIGS. 13 a, 13 b and 13 c isidentical to the structure of the device 10 in FIGS. 12 a, 12 b and 12 cexcept for a single strand of flossing substrate 12 is employed betweenthe handles 14,16. There is further shown a transversely centered andlongitudinally centered longitudinal slit or aperture 70 within eachhandle 14, 16 of device 10. In this preferred mode of the device 10similar to that of FIGS. 12 a-c, each handle 14, 16 is dimensioned largeenough so that each longitudinal slit or aperture 70 in each handle 14and 16 is dimensioned large enough to be capable of being easilypenetrated by the forefinger, and each handle 14 and 16 is dimensionedlarge enough to be capable of being held and tensed to a useful degreeof tension between or about forefingers as occurs during an alternatekind of flossing session. Again, such a slit or aperture 70 in eachhandle 14, 16 of the device 10 can be incorporated to alternately, andoptionally, modify the structure of any other mode of the invention.

A yet still further embodiment of a particularly preferred mode of thedevice 10 is depicted in FIGS. 14 a and 14 b. FIGS. 14 a, 14 brespectively show views of the device 10 similar to but further modifiedfrom FIGS. 11 a, and 11 b. The structure of the device 10 from FIGS. 14a and 14 b are identical to the structure of the device 10 in FIGS. 11 aand 11 b except for a transversely centered and longitudinally centeredlongitudinal slit or aperture 70 within each handle 14, 16 of device 10.First and second portions 21,23 of edible substrate 20 positioned onboth the first or top planar surface 81 are respectively joined by anengagement means to the first and second portions 21′,23′ on theopposing second or bottom planar surface 83 holding them in place overthe aperture 40. Means to mate the portions of the top and bottomsurfaces may include one or a combination of edible adhesives or bysimply wetting the substrates and allowing them to dry after applyingcontact pressure on the two portions.

A still further embodiment of the preferred mode of the device 10 isdepicted in FIGS. 15 a and 15 b. In this mode the handles 14′,16′ aredisposed in the transverse direction including a transversely centeredslit or aperture 75 within each handle 14′,16′ of the device 10. Theflossing substrate 12 is again shown sandwiched between a first or topplanar portion 15 and second or bottom planar portion 17. As can be seenthe flossing substrates 12 communicate through the engagement zone 22between the handles 14′,16′ disposed substantially parallel in thelongitudinal direction 80. Upon sandwiched engagement with the top 15and bottom 17 planar portions of the handles 14′,16′ the substrate 12then extends substantially at a right angle in a disposition parallel tothe transverse direction 82. This mode may better provide a means tomaintain the substrate 12 in sandwiched engagement between the portions15,17 of the handles 14′,16′ when a user applies tension in thelongitudinal direction as is in the as used mode. Further, this mode mayadditionally be modified to employ the edible substrates 21,23 of any ofthe previously disclosed preferred modes of the device 10.

FIG. 16 shows a top view of the device 10 from FIGS. 1 a and 1 b in theas-used position translatabley engaged for flossing. The flossingsubstrate 12 is shown engaged within the space 101 between two adjacentincisors 100. The edible substrate 20 is positioned near the incisor 100and as contact with a saliva coated tooth or gum tissue begins,dissolvable component provided by the substrate 20 proceeds to dissolveand deposit any of the aforementioned ingredients flavor, cooling agent,medicine, etc. or combination thereof.

More detailed depictions of the method of use associated with the device10 may be seen in FIG. 17. The device 10 is grasped between the thumb aforefinger at the respective handles 14,16. The user then engages theflossing substrate 12 within the engagement zone 22, overlap 24, orabutted edge 26,30 of the edible substrate 20 to glide into the space101 between two adjacent teeth 100. A flossing up and down motion, orreciprocating motion, then proceeds to cause a cleaning of the spacebetween teeth while saliva upon the saliva coated teeth and/or gums,continually dissolves the edible substrate 20.

These steps are then repeated on the adjacent teeth. Additionally, inthe preferred method for cleaning back teeth and other hard to reachteeth, the user engages the forefinger into the slit 70 of the handles14,16, and then can press the tips of the middle finger against thehandles 14,16 creating tension in the device 10 for improved flossing,as is described immediately below.

FIG. 17 a depicts steps in employment of the device 10 in a mode withparallel flossing substrates 12 and without the dissolvable componentshown in FIG. 17. As shown, the device 10 is grasped between a thumb andforefinger at the respective handles 14,16 whereby the two flossingsubstrates 12 may be pulled taught. The user then engages one of the twoflossing substrates 12 within the glide into the space 101 between twoadjacent teeth 100. A flossing up and down motion, or reciprocatingmotion, then proceeds to cause a cleaning of the space 101 betweenadjoining teeth. These steps are then repeated on the adjacent pairs ofteeth. Additionally, in the preferred method for cleaning back teeth andother hard to reach teeth, the user engages the forefingers into theslits 70 of both handles 14,16, and then can engage one of the twostrands of flossing substrate 12 between the spaces 101 between rearpairs of teeth.

In FIG. 17 b steps of employment of the device 10 in a mode having asingle strand of flossing substrate 12 and opposing dissolvablecomponents provided by an edible substrate 20 adjacent a first handle 14and second handle 16 is shown with the device 10 in an as-used position.As shown, the single strand of flossing substrate 12 is offset from thecenter of both handles adjacent one edge of each of the handles 14 and16. This offset positioning of the single strand of substrate 12 allowsthe handles to be positioned to more easily slide toward the gums of theuser when held in a sandwiched or compressed engagement between thethumb and a finger of each hand. The dissolvable component provided bythe depicted edible substrate 20, comes into contact with both sides ofthe teeth as shown, during use.

FIG. 18 a shows a view of the device 10 in the as used mode showing thehandle 14 in preferred splayed engagement. This engagement provided bythe handles, following the contour of a forefinger of the user, as wouldbe achieved in the first seven steps of the sequence of steps of FIG.17. The splayed engagement provides a means to prevent slippage of thehandle 14 from a finger during use by maintaining an increased surfacecontact and curved engagement which resists slippage.

FIG. 18 b shows, with the mode of FIG. 12 a depicted, an alternate, andoptional, preferred eighth step that may be substituted for the firststep in the sequence of steps of FIG. 17 which may be further optionallymodified throughout, as not shown, for use of the device 10. The splay71 formed following the curve of the user's finger provides a morecomfortable and secure engagement thereto. FIG. 18 shows an easy way tohold the device 10 tensed upon or between forefingers and pressed bytips of middle fingers at the ready. Alternately, instead of middlefingers, two thumbs can be used to further maneuver the device 10, whereone thumb is not shown in FIG. 18 b.

Referring to the first step of the sequence of eight steps for use ofthe device 10, depicted in FIG. 17, FIG. 18 shows an alternate, andoptional, eighth step of the method of use of device 10 from FIG. 12easily held and tensed by forefingers and pressed by tips of middlefingers at the ready to subsequently, and as not shown, with aforefinger engaged with each longitudinal slit or aperture 70 of eachhandle 14 and 16 and with the tip of a middle finger with each handle 14and 16, easily maneuver and use the device 10 to floss behind andbetween back teeth and/or between front teeth and anything in between.

It is additionally preferred that the slit or aperture 70 be partiallyor substantially non-tearing slits 70 as the tension imposed on thedistal ends of the slits 70 may tend to tear the handles 14, 16. Howeverthe degree of tearing can be minimized by employing at least oneadditional top or bottom layer of the non-stretchable or substantiallynon-stretchable fabric such as the 3M adhesive cloth tape, Dupont TYVEKspunbonded high density polyethylene, or a nonwoven spunbonded highdensity polyethylene fabric adapted to the task herein. It is the abovetensioned engagement of fingers with the slits 70 that forms the splay71 providing a friction enhancing surface for a finger-engagement andresulting comfort when under tension.

Additionally, handle portions 14,16, in all preferred modes of thedevice 10, may be formed of injection molded polypropylene as opposed toemploying the sandwiched engagement of adhesive backed fabric. It ispreferred that the injection molded or otherwise formed polypropylene beemployed substantially thin, preferably about 0.015 inch (0.038centimeter), to ensure a comfortable and flexible grip yet still providea thickness that does not allow the handles 14,16 to break. Further, itis advantageous that the slit 70 alternatively be employed has a slothaving a substantial width as to allow a user's forefinger to easilyengage within the slot as needed for the as used mode shown previously.

In FIG. 19 there is shown a perspective view of the device 10 in anotherparticularly preferred mode which would be employable in a portable butclean, moisture proof fashion. This mode of the device 10 would beparticularly adapted for being carried by the user during travel, or fordispensing by hotels and the like to patrons staying on the propertymuch like soap and other toiletries.

As depicted, the device 10, which could be any mode of the device 10described herein is surrounded by a removable package 50 forming aclean, moisture proof storage compartment 51 for the device 10 therein.The package 50 is shown in transparent form, however it can also beopaque and may have indicia thereon showing the name of the hotel ordispensing entity. Further, the indicia may also include the depictedsteps of FIG. 17 to educate users as to the proper manner to employ thedevice 10 once removed from the package 50.

In the mode of the device 10 in combination with the package 50 of FIG.19, the device 10 is generally employed in a single use disposablemanner. In a method of use, the user would hold the device 10 encasedwithin the clean, substantially moisture proof compartment 51 of thepackage 50 in their hands. In a next step, a frangible or tear offportion 52 would be removed to provide a means to access the device 10within compartment 51 of the package 50. The compartment 51 may have arelease liner 73 to prevent the device from sticking to the sidewalls ofthe compartment 51 such as a film of non-stick plastic material. Oncethe tear off portion 52 is removed the device 10 would be extracted andthe user would employ the device 10 in the method of steps depicted inFIG. 17. Once finished the user would dispose of the device 10 and thepackage 50.

Such individual combinations of the device 10 and package 50 may be soldseparately or in a container of many individual packages 50 which may beseparated or may be on a roll of individually removable packages 50 witheach containing a device 10 within their respective compartment 51. Soldand distributed in bulk, the device 10 would be especially adapted foruse and individually dispensing, or sampling, to any global or domesticmanufacturer or marketer of pre-existing globally branded orretail-store branded dental flosses, trade show booths and dentalschools for dentists or dental hygienists, dental patients visiting thedentist or dental hygienist, medical patients visiting a medical doctoror dentist who prescribes regular flossing to minimize system-wideinflammation due to gum disease, guests in their hotel bathrooms, firstclass airline passengers, cruise ship passengers in their cabinbathrooms, astronauts, hospital patients, crew members in submarinebathrooms, elementary school teachers and/or elementary school studentsin their classrooms, women on the go carrying purses, men whose clotheshave pockets, oral care companies and/or insurance companies whoanalogous to providing good driver discounts or discounts for exerciseand/or prevention seek better compliance by dental patients monitored bydental or medical professionals, and other venues such as travel kits orinserts to or piggybacked on boxes of a global brand of toothpaste onthe shelves of supermarket aisles where users may not yet have their ownsupply of floss with them, or where a one-use flossing component, orlikeness of such a component and proper flossing instructions actuallypurchased in a virtual world created by residents (people like you)participating on the world wide web in games simulating real life suchas the Second Life® game by Linden Research Inc. whose well knownon-line games can also be a virtual way to encourage or train someone ona new flossing component virtually before they attempt the real thing inreal life, would all be especially desirable when used for the firsttime or used regularly to help maintain, improve or help encourage thehabit of improving oral health and system-wide health.

An additional preferred mode of the device 10 is shown in FIGS. 20 a, 20b, and 20 c. Similar to other modes of the device 10 shown in previousfigures, the first or top planar portion 15 has, as shown in FIG. 20 c,an inner most surface 61 and the second or bottom planar portion 17 hasan inner most surface 63. As is preferred in the current mode, andfurther evidenced in FIG. 20 c, and therein the second handle 16, aportion 23 of edible substrate 20 is engaged on a ledge or an inner mostportion 65 of the inner most surface 63 of the second or bottom planarportion 17 thereof, thereby joining the portions 23 of edible substrate20 to the handle 16. Alternatively, on the first handle 14 there isclearly seen a dissolvable component in the form of capsule 90 engagedin a substantially central position on the ledge or an inner mostportion 65 of the inner most surface 63 of the second or bottom planarportion 17 of the handle 14 thereby joining the capsule 90 to the handle14, shown clearly in FIGS. 20 a, 20 c and 20 d. Additional preferredmeans for engaging the capsule are shown later in FIGS. 21-23.

As even further evidenced in FIGS. 20 a and 20 c, the dissolvablecapsule 90 and portion 23 of edible substrate 20 are engagedrespectively on the handles or ledge or inner most portion 65 of eachhandle 14 and 16 at or near the inner most edges 62 of the first or topplanar portion 15 of the handles 14 and 16 at the respective abuttededges 28 shared therebetween. Again, as in the device of FIG. 1, a gap25 defining a means for targeting or an engagement zone 22 is formed ina centrally located position on the device 10 providing the target formeans of engagement of the device 10 for use.

It is noted that the employment of the dissolvable capsule 90, similarto that of the substrate 20, is intended to elicit a pleasant gustatoryand/or olfactory sensation in the user during the use of dental flossdevice 10 in a proper fashion, that is, the user's saliva tends to wetthe handles during use and therefor additionally wet and dissolve thedissolvable capsule 90 and substrate 20. In accordance to at least onepreferred mode of the device 10 the most favored dissolvable capsule 90is one provided by the patent to Mane et al (U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,754,239and 7,744,922), herein incorporated in their entirety by reference,teaching fast dissolving (and filled) dissolvable capsules employingsome gelatin (and sorbitol) in the shell of the capsule having a breathfreshening core. There is further noted a non-gelatin capsule shellformation found in U.S. Pat. No. 6,949,256 issued to Fonkwe et al,herein incorporated in its entirety by reference, whose abstractindicates that the non-gelatin capsule shell is intended “forencapsulating wet or dry materials including medicinal dosage forms,nutritional supplements . . . etc.”

Still further, it is noted that in accordance with all modes of thedevice employing a dissolvable component provided by one or a pluralityof dissolvable capsules, it is to be understood that the dissolvablecapsule is not limited to the favored elements described above, howevercan be any one from a group including candies and mints such as ALTOIDS,M&M'S, TIC-TACS, THERAMINTS, other commercially and non-commerciallyavailable mints. As such, the dissolvable component can be formed one ora combination of wet or dry ingredients from a group of ingredientsincluding, a dissolvable component formed as a solid solution such asdissolvable candies and mints, or a dissolvable capsule containing acore formed of one or a combination of wet or dry materials from a groupincluding, a breath freshening core, a medicinal dosage, nutritionalsupplements, flavoring, mouthwash, a cooling agent, a heating agent, adental plaque disclosing agent, a medicine and nutritional supplements.

An additional note is made that the flossing substrate 12 can be formedfrom a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) which can be an elastic polyetherblock amide, known commonly under the trademark Pebax (available fromArkema). Alternately, the flossing substrate 12 can be formed from aninelastic ePTFE such that the aperture 40 can be laser cut to form theflossing substrate 12. The flossing substrate 12 thus can be formed inthis mode, as one skilled in the art will appreciate, out of elastic orinelastic material. Alternately, in accordance with this preferred modeof device 10 the composition of another favored flossing substrate 12 isprovided by the patent(s) to Chen (U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,153,254 and6,161,555), herein incorporated in their entirety by reference, teachinga gelatinous elastomer composition, or crystal gel, that can be shapedor formed, for example by molding or casting, into the flossingsubstrate 12 of device 10 of FIGS. 29 a and 29 b (and FIGS. 10 a and 10b, and FIGS. 11 a and 11 b, and FIGS. 14 a and 14 b). As indicated byChen, such a gelatinous elastomer composition, or crystal gel, shapedinto a floss removes dental plaque from between teeth at the same timethat the gelatinous elastomer composition, or crystal gel is gentle onthe gums. Such a preferred gelatinous elastomer composition, or crystalgel, formed into the flossing substrate 12 of device 10, is not onlymuch more gentle on gums than any regular string floss employing, forexample, an elastic polyether block amide (such as the string of Johnson& Johnson's elastic “REACH” “TOTAL CARE” dental floss tape or inelasticePTFE (such as the string of Procter & Gamble's ePTFE “GLIDE” dentalfloss tape), but compared to any string floss, device 10 is also mucheasier, much more comfortable and breath freshening.

Still further, it is noted that the handles 14, 16 of the currentlydisclosed preferred mode of the device 10, as well as all other modes ofthe device 10, may be entirely formed of, or have top and bottom planarportions 15, 17 formed of one or a combination of handle materials froma group including, flexible nonwoven fabric; woven fabric; woven rayonacetate tape; spunbonded polypropylene nonwoven fabric; spunbonded nylonnonwoven fabric; spunbonded blended polyolefin hydrophobic nonwovenfabric; high density polyethylene nonwoven fabric; powder-free,scent-free, latex-free rubber; thermoplastic elastomer polyether blockamide; thermoplastic elastomer; spunbonded polypropylene hydrophobicnonwoven fabric; laser cut woven or nonwoven fabric; and other suitablematerials.

Further, it is preferred that a transfer adhesive is employed in orderto engage the top and bottom portions 15, 17 forming the handles 14, 16such as a hypoallergenic medical grade transfer adhesive (available asproduct #1524 from 3M). An alternate to a transfer adhesive is a hotmeltadhesive (available as product #H20009 from Bostik or, as mostpreferred, product #H2465 from Bostik). A further note is made in thatthe flossing substrate 12 can be formed from an elastic thermoplasticelastomer polyether block amide such as that employed in Johnson &Johnson's “REACH” “TOTAL CARE” dental floss tape, which is elastic.

FIG. 20 d shows another preferred mode of the device 10 wherein thefirst and second handles 14, 16 each employ dissolvable capsules 90 in asubstantially mirrored configuration. As is shown, it is to beunderstood that the longitudinally spaced apart capsules 90 from onehandle 14 to the other 16 in such a mode can have the general appearanceto the user as a whole, especially to young children and football fansand other adults, to resemble longitudinally spaced apart small “goalposts”. Therefore the capsule 90 ‘goal posts’ provide a physical targetto identify the engagement zone 22 and therefore assist the user tomaneuver through the space or gap 25 during use.

In use, as the user successfully passes the flossing substrate 12between two adjacent incisors 100, the ‘goal posts’ are contactedessentially telling the user they have reached the ‘goal’. At the sametime the ‘goal posts’ of the dissolvable capsule 90 are dissolved in thewarm and moist environment of the mouth upon contact with saliva. Thedissolving capsule 90 thereby releases the breath freshening or othercore during flossing, and thereby conveys that the user has ‘scored’ therequisite ‘points’. The user can readily perceive the gustatory and/orolfactory rewards at the same time the user is eyeing the gap 25 andflossing substrate 12 of device 10 for cleaning/flossing between teethfor ‘scoring’ essentially multiple ‘points’ of the instant flossinvention, which is use-reinforcing for users.

In FIG. 21 a and FIG. 21 b, there is an additional preferred mode of thedevice 10 wherein both handles 14, 16 employ dissolvable capsules 90 ina substantially mirrored configuration with the dissolvable capsule 90engaged to the ledge portions 65 of the handles 14, 16. The capsule 90is positioned substantially central on the ledge or an innermost portion65 and an additional tab portion 92 of the bottom planar portion 17 nearthe inner most edge 64 is employed for engagement about a substantialsurface area of the capsule 90, providing secured engagement thereon.

FIG. 21 c shows yet another preferred mode of the device 10 wherein thesecond handle 16 includes a portion 23 of edible substrate 20 engaged ona ledge or an inner most portion 65 of the second or bottom planarportion 17 thereof, thereby joining the portions 23 of edible substrate20 to the handle 16. The first handle 14 includes a dissolvable capsule90 engaged substantially central on the ledge or an innermost portion 65in a manner similar to that of FIG. 21 a. As can be seen the additionaltab portion 92 of the bottom planar portion 17 near the inner most edge64 is employed for engagement about a substantial surface area of thecapsule 90, providing secured engagement of the capsule 90 to the firsthandle 14.

In FIG. 22 a and FIG. 22 b there is yet an additional preferred mode ofthe devices employing other means for engaging the capsule 90 to theledge or innermost portion 65. As can be seen there is a longitudinalslit 94 extending from the inner most edge 64 of the bottom planarportion 17 such as to provide a kind of cradle to nestle or otherwiseengage the capsule 90 about a larger surface area.

FIG. 22 c shows still yet another preferred mode of the device 10wherein the second handle 16 includes a portion 23 of edible substrate20 engaged on a ledge or an inner most portion 65 of the second orbottom planar portion 17 thereof, thereby joining the portions 23 ofedible substrate 20 to the handle 16. The first handle 14 includes adissolvable capsule 90 engaged substantially central on the ledge or aninnermost portion 65 in a manner similar to that of FIG. 22 a. As can beseen, a longitudinal slit 94 extending from the inner most edge 64 ofthe bottom planar portion 17 provides a kind of cradle to nestle orotherwise engage the capsule 90 about a larger surface area providingsecured engagement of the capsule 90 to the first handle 14.

Further, in FIG. 23 a there is still another preferred mode of thedevice 10 showing another preferred engaged position of the capsule 90to the respective handles 14, 16. As shown, the capsules 90 shown areengaged on the ledge or innermost portion 65 in a position extendingsubstantially past the inner most edge 64 of the bottom planar portion17. This mode ensures the user's saliva will contact the capsules 90, 91almost immediately when employed properly.

FIG. 23 b shows still another preferred mode of the device 10 whereinthe second handle 16 again includes a portion 23 of edible substrate 20engaged on a ledge or an inner most portion 65 of the second or bottomplanar portion 17 thereof, thereby joining the portions 23 of ediblesubstrate 20 to the handle 16. The first handle 14 includes adissolvable capsule 90 engaged substantially central on the ledge or aninnermost portion 65 in a manner similar to that of FIG. 23 a. As can beseen, the capsule 90 is engaged on the ledge or innermost portion 65 ina position extending substantially past the inner most edge 64 of thebottom planar portion 17.

A still further additional preferred mode of the device 10 is shown inFIGS. 24 a, 24 b, and 24 c. In this mode, on the first handle 14 thereis clearly seen a first dissolvable capsule 90 and a second dissolvablecapsule 91 spaced a distance apart and engaged at or near the corners ofthe ledge or an inner most portion 65 of the inner most surface 63 ofthe second or bottom planar portion 17 of the handle 14 thereby joiningthe capsules 90, 91 to the handle 14. Additional preferred means forengaging the capsules 90, 91 to the ledge or innermost portion 65 areshown later in FIGS. 26-28.

Shown and preferred, there is a first portion 21 of substrate 20 engagedto ledge or innermost portion 65 and disposed substantially midwaybetween the capsules 90, 91. As could be imagined, the device 10 in thecurrent mode provides a gustatory and/or olfactory sensation in the userduring proper employment.

It is to be noted that it is within the scope of the invention thatother modes of the device 10, however not shown, may provide a firsthandle 14 as shown in previous FIG. 24 a, and a second handle 16, beingof a substantially mirrored configuration.

FIGS. 25 a, 25 b, and 25 c show yet an additional preferred mode of thedevice 10. In the current mode, a first and second capsule 90, 91 areprovided, similar to that in FIGS. 24 a-c, however in this mode noportion 21 of substrate 20 is provided. As such, a gustatory and/orolfactory sensation will still be provided. A partial end view of thefirst handle 14 is shown in FIG. 25 d.

FIG. 26 shows still another preferred mode of the device 10 wherein thesecond handle 16 also employs a plurality of dissolvable capsules 90, 91in a substantially mirrored configuration to the first handle 14.

FIG. 27 a shows a view of yet another preferred mode of the device 10the handles 14, 16 in a substantially mirrored configuration employingan additional preferred means for engaging first and second dissolvablecapsules 90, 91 thereon. In this mode, the capsules 90, 91 are similarlyspaced a distance apart and engaged at or near the corners of the ledgeor an inner most portion 65 wherein first and second transverse tabportions 95, 96 are operatively employed for substantial surface areaengagement with the capsules 90, 91. As shown in the partial end view ofFIG. 27 b, it can be clearly seen that the engagement of the transversetab portions 95, 96 about the surface area of the capsules 90, 91provide added secured engagement over the simple planar engagement shownin the previous mode.

FIG. 28 shows a view of yet another preferred mode of the device 10 withthe handles 14, 16 employing yet another preferred means for engagingthe first and second dissolvable capsules 90, 91. As is shown, thecapsules 90, 91 are similarly spaced a distance apart and engaged at ornear the corners of the ledge or an inner most portion 65 wherein thecorners 97, 98 are folded over providing surface area engagement withthe capsules 90, 91.

Further, it is noted that in other modes of the device 10 not shown yetreadily recognized by one skilled in the art that the device 10 mayinclude a first handle 14 employing first and second capsules 90, 91similar to that of FIG. 27 a or 28 in combination with a second handle16 employing edible substrate 20 engaged at or near the second handle16. In these modes, the dissolvable component or edible substrate 20 maybe engaged in accordance with any of the disclosed means to engage thesubstrate 20 thereon, and are anticipated.

A still further embodiment of a particularly preferred mode of thedevice 10 is depicted in FIGS. 29 a and 29 b. First and second handles14,16 are defined by end portions of the planar flossing substrate 12.Side portions 13 of the planar flossing substrate 12 extend around theperimeter of, and help define the aperture 40, and preferably align withthe edge of the adjacent substrate 12 thereby providing an elongatedmeans to floss when engaged within the crevices between teeth.

First dissolvable capsule 90 and second portion 23 of edible substrate20 are engaged on one surface such as the first or top planar surface 81of the device by operative means of engagement. Engaged to the flossingsubstrate 12, the portion 23 is cut or formed in a manner to overlap theaperture 40 and have the same side edge, that is width, as the flossingsubstrate 12, while the capsule 90 preferably has the same width as theaperture 40. The capsule 90 and portion 23 are engaged at or near theends of the aperture 40 using means of engagement such as adhesive ortape 18. The portion 23 and capsule 90 extend inward and over theaperture 40. The gap 25 is maintained between the two portions anddefines the target for the user in the engagement zone 22 as previouslydescribed.

It is once again noted that it is within the scope of the invention thatstill other modes of the device 10, not shown however readily recognizedby one skilled in the art, may provide a first handle 14 as shown inprevious FIG. 29 a, and a second handle 16, being of a substantiallymirrored configuration, and is anticipated.

In FIG. 30 there is shown a perspective view of the device 10 in stillanother particularly preferred mode which would be employable in aportable but clean, moisture proof fashion, similar to that of FIG. 19shown previously. This mode of the device 10 would be particularlyadapted for being carried by the user during travel, or for dispensingby hotels and the like to patrons staying on the property much like soapand other toiletries.

As depicted, the device 10, preferably being a mode of the device 10employing a dissolvable component in the form of a dissolvable capsule90 described herein is surrounded by a removable package 50 forming aclean, moisture proof storage compartment 51 for the device 10 therein.The package 50 is shown in transparent form, however it can also beopaque and may have indicia thereon showing the name of the hotel ordispensing entity. Further, in accordance with modes of the device 10employing dissolvable components such as film or one or more dissolvablecapsules, the package 50 is preferably formed as a kind of rigid blisterpackage, in order to protect the capsule and prevent damage. In use theentire package 50 may be formed as a blister package or, alternatively,only the portion covering the capsule may be of a blister package type.Again, a frangible or tear off portion 52 and a release liner 73 areprovided.

FIG. 31 depicts a preferred mode of the device 10 showing a top planview. A single strand of flossing substrate 12 extending between anengagement with a first handle 14 and second handle 16. The flossingsubstrate 12 as shown in dotted line, extends substantially the entirelength of both the first handle 14 and second handle 16 in an engagementtherewith.

As shown in FIG. 32 a cross-sectional view of the device 10 of FIG. 31along line V-V, the flossing substrate 12 is in a sandwiched engagementbetween first planar portions 15 and second planar portions 17 of boththe first handle 14 and second handle 16 for substantially the entirelength “X” of each handle.

As can be seen in FIG. 33 which is a cross-sectional view of the device10 of FIG. 31 along line U-U, the first planar portion 15 is directlyengaged to the second planar portion 17 of both the first handle 14 andsecond handle 16 in areas where the flossing substrate 12 is not in asandwiched engagement therebetween.

In FIG. 34 there is shown an additional preferred mode of the device 10in a plan view, showing two strands of flossing substrate 12 extendingbetween an engagement with a first handle 14 and second handle 16. Ascan be seen in dotted line, both strands of flossing substrate 12 extendin that engagement across substantially the entire length “X” of bothhandles and have a separation distance “Z” between their parallel paths.

FIG. 35 depicts a cross-sectional view of the device 10 of FIG. 34 alongline BB-BB. As can be discerned from the drawing, the flossing substrate12 is in a sandwiched engagement between first planar portions 15 andsecond planar portions 17 of both the first handle 14 and second handle16 for substantially the entire length “X” of each handle.Experimentation has shown that this engagement running the length “X” ofboth handles, between the first planar portion 15 and second planarportion 17 in their adhesive engagement, provides an exceptionallysecure engagement of the flossing substrate 12 with the handles and ispreferred in all modes of the device 10 herein. In the mode of thedevice 10 with two flossing substrates 12, this engagement additionallyprovides a means to define the separation distance “Z” between theparallel paths of both flossing substrates 12.

FIG. 36 shows a cross-sectional view of the device 10 of FIG. 34 alongline AA-AA which shows the first planar portion 15 is directly engagedto the second planar portion 17 of both the first handle 14 and secondhandle 16 in areas where the two substrates 12 are not in the sandwichedengagement therebetween.

While all of the fundamental characteristics and features of theimproved flossing invention have been shown and described herein, withreference to particular embodiments thereof, a latitude of modification,various changes and substitutions are intended in the foregoingdisclosure and it will be apparent that in some instances, some featuresof the invention may be employed without a corresponding use of otherfeatures without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth.It should also be understood that various substitutions, modifications,and variations may be made by those skilled in the art without departingfrom the spirit or scope of the invention. Consequently, all suchmodifications and variations and substitutions are included within thescope of the invention as defined by the following claims.

What is claimed:
 1. A dental floss apparatus for cleaning a gap betweentwo adjacent teeth in the surrounding mouth of a user comprising: astrand of flossing substrate extending a length in-between respectivefirst ends of a respective pair of handles from respective permanentengagements of one each of two distal ends of said strand, with arespective one of said pair of handles: said handles having a second endopposite said first end and having opposing side edges running a lengthof said handle therebetween, an area of each said handle defined by anarea between said first end, said second end and said side edges of eachsaid handle, defining a respective handle compressive surface areaconfigured for a compressive engagement in-between a finger and thumb ofopposing hands of a user for pulling said handles in substantiallyopposite directions and rendering said length of said flossing substrateto an as-used position, tensioned and with said length of said flossingsubstrate extending along a line running in-between said respectivefirst ends of said handles; a transversely centered and longitudinallycentered slit positioned within each of said handles, wherein each ofthe longitudinal centered slit being dimensioned large enough to becapable to be penetrated by user's forefinger; a portion of said strandof flossing substrate overlapping the entire length of each handle in apermanent engagement thereto; and translation of said dental flossapparatus in said as-used position while inserted within said gap,providing a translating contact of the entire said length of saidflossing substrate with surfaces of said teeth.
 2. The dental flossapparatus of claim 1 wherein the portion of said strand of flossingsubstrate overlapping the entire length of each handle in a permanentengagement comprises: an extension of said substrate in a contactbetween two engaged sides of each respective said handle therebypositioning said substrate within said compressive engagement.
 3. Thedental floss apparatus of claim 2 additionally comprising: said handlesformed of flexible material; and said flexible material elasticallyexpanding in, a splayed portion of said handle compressive surface areaof said handles, to a shape complimentary to that of a curved surface ofone of said thumb or said finger of each respective hand of said userwhile said length of said flossing substrate is in said as-usedposition; and said splayed portion thereby increasing an area of surfacecontact of said thumb or finger with a respective said handlecompressive surface area during said compressive engagement andproviding a means to enhance said compressive engagement and preventslipping.
 4. The dental floss apparatus of claim 3 additionallycomprising: said strand of flossing substrate extending betweenrespective-engagements with each said handle in an offset position fromeach of said pair of handles; and said offset position being closer toone of said opposing side edges than to the other of said opposing sideedges.
 5. The dental floss apparatus of claim 3 additionally comprising:at least one dissolvable component positioned adjacent respective firstends of said pair of handles in an engagement with one of said handlesor with said flossing substrate.
 6. The dental floss apparatus of claim2 additionally comprising: said strand of flossing substrate extendingbetween respective engagements with each said handle in an offsetposition from each of said pair of handles; and said offset positionbeing closer to one of said opposing side edges than to the other ofsaid opposing side edges.
 7. The dental floss apparatus of claim 2additionally comprising: at least one dissolvable component positionedadjacent respective first ends of said pair of handles in an engagementwith one of said handles or with said flossing substrate.
 8. The dentalfloss apparatus of claim 1 additionally comprising: said handles formedof flexible material; and said flexible material elastically expandingat a splayed portion of said handle compressive surface area of saidhandles, to a shape complimentary to that of a curved surface of one ofsaid thumb or said finger of each respective hand of said user whilesaid length of said flossing substrate is in said as-used position; andsaid splayed portion thereby increasing an area of surface contact ofsaid thumb or finger with a respective said handle compressive surfacearea during said compressive engagement and providing a means to enhancesaid compressive engagement and prevent slipping.
 9. The dental flossapparatus of claim 8 additionally comprising: said strand of flossingsubstrate extending between respective engagements with each said handlein an offset position from each of said pair of handles; and said offsetposition being closer to one of said opposing side edges than to theother of said opposing side edges.
 10. The dental floss apparatus ofclaim 8 additionally comprising: at least one dissolvable componentpositioned adjacent respective first ends of said pair of handles in anengagement with one of said handles or with said flossing substrate. 11.The dental floss apparatus of claim 1 additional comprising: a pair ofsaid strands of flossing substrate extending a respective said lengthin-between respective first ends of said respective pair of handles fromthe respective said permanent engagements with each said handle; said ofstrands of flossing substrate while tensioned in said as-used position,being spaced from each other a distance defining a void therebetween,and running substantially parallel.
 12. The dental apparatus of claim 11wherein said respective permanent engagements of each of said pairflossing substrates with each respective said handle comprise: a portionof each said strands in said pair of flossing substrates overlapping theentire length of each handle in a permanent engagement between twoengaged sides of each respective said handle thereby positioning saidpair of strands of flossing substrate within said compressiveengagement.
 13. The dental floss apparatus of claim 12 additionallycomprising: said handles formed of flexible material; and said flexiblematerial elastically expanding in a splayed portion of said handlecompressive surface area of said handles, to a shape complimentary tothat of a curved surface of one of said thumb or said finger of eachrespective hand of said user positioning said length of said flossingsubstrate in said as-used position; and said splayed portion therebyincreasing an area of surface contact of said thumb or finger with arespective said handle compressive surface area during said compressiveengagement and providing a means to enhance said compressive engagementand prevent slipping.
 14. The dental floss apparatus of claim 12additionally comprising: at least one dissolvable component positionedadjacent respective first ends of said pair of handles in an engagementwith one of said handles or with one of said pair of flossingsubstrates.
 15. The dental floss apparatus of claim 11 additionallycomprising: at least one dissolvable component positioned adjacentrespective first ends of said pair of handles in an engagement with oneof said handles or with one of said pair of flossing substrates.
 16. Thedental floss apparatus of claim 1 additionally comprising: said strandof flossing substrate extending between respective engagements with eachsaid handle in an offset position from each of said pair of handles; andsaid offset position being closer to one of said opposing side edgesthan to the other of said opposing side edges.
 17. The dental flossapparatus of claim 1 additionally comprising: at least one dissolvablecomponent positioned adjacent respective first ends of said pair ofhandles in an engagement with one of said handles or with said flossingsubstrate.